Chapter 18
If not for the simple sleeping draught Severus had given her, Narnia may have been too exhausted to be so uptight. Two days had passed since he had left, to where, she was unsure, but she gathered it wasn't for rest and relaxation. Every indication he had given her suggested he would return tomorrow and after breakfast, she would make for the dungeons, looking busy with student work until he returned.
Walking down to the Great Hall the next morning, she thought yet again of the moment in her office, just before he had left. He had caught her in a most vulnerable state, awaking from a hellish dream, which in retrospect, he never inquired about, even though Narnia knew he was quite curious about the matter. After gaining her composure, she had noticed his attire and it was apparent he was preparing to leave. There had been warning bells telling her to hold back, reminding her of her decision to keep him at arm's length, but they were drowned out by her need to send him off with some indication of how she felt. Her heart betrayed her mind and had leapt at his reaction to her touch. The way in which he embraced her, left her breathless and in no doubt, that somewhere inside of him, no matter how minor it might be, he did, in fact, feel something for her as well. She smiled with its remembrance. He had kissed her, so passionately and all that followed had been enveloped in a haze. She recalled what he had said, "We shall pick up where we left off when I return", signaling a new direction in their relationship, and she anticipated the moment when they could be alone, with nowhere to be and no interruptions.
If it had not been for this new twist in her relationship with Severus holding her thoughts captive, she would have noticed the buzz and tinge of apprehension swarming through the Great Hall. From some distance, all appeared normal at the Head Table, but as Narnia approached, solemn, worried faces of her colleagues awaited her. It was apparent that the staff was remaining calm for the students' benefit, but one look at Professor McGonagall and Narnia knew something major had happened. Noticing her uncle's absence, she took her seat and looking out amongst a sea of frightened student faces, she looked down when someone had slid a copy of the Daily Prophet in front of her. Her heart almost ceased beating. She furrowed her brows in concentration. The headline and one of the faces caught her attention; all else became blurred.
Death Eaters Escape Azkaban
There, below the headline, was an oddly familiar face. Tearing her eyes away from the picture, she glanced down to read the name; "Lucius Malfoy". Quickly making the connection, she looked to the Slytherin table and located Draco. As expected, his countenance showed no signs of worry, but a smug assurance poured from him. Disgusted, she looked back to the Daily Prophet. "His father, I presume," Narnia thought. She gazed at the photograph. His picture did nothing more than exude confidence and sophistication in a way that sickened Narnia and she watched him, as he would raise an eyebrow and sneer. She had never met this Lucius Malfoy, but even after folding the paper and placing it out of sight, his face remained clear in her mind. He was familiar, in some way and in a respect other than just having his spitting image as one of her students.
Professor McGonagall approached her from behind, leaning down to whisper in her ear. "Albus wishes to speak with us immediately following breakfast." Without looking up at the witch, Narnia simply nodded her head. She heard Minerva leave behind her and even though her appetite had disappeared, she forced several bites, knowing that the body of students gathered before her was watching her, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Catching several of their gazes, she smiled, as sincerely as she could, hoping to cast some assurance into their worried minds. Then, suddenly, as if standing in dark room where light is at once cast in, she thought of Severus. She shifted nervously in her seat. His involvement in this was certain, but to what extent and why? Her uncle knew he was going away for a few days, but..... Narnia's heart sank. Perhaps it had been his intention to leave and not return. "No, don't be ridiculous," she scolded herself mentally. Unless Severus had performed an miraculous charade this entire time, she knew better than to think him capable of returning to Voldemort's side. Then, her annoying voice of reason spoke, "he joined him once before, what could keep him from doing it again?" Shaking her head, hoping to clear it, she folded the napkin from her lap and placed in on the table. She refused to let her thoughts run away with her and hastily, she stood and made for Dumbledore's office.
After being beckoned inside, Narnia glanced around the small group that was assembled. Dumbledore's office always seemed too cramped for this many, but perhaps he had charmed it with an enlarging spell to accommodate everyone. Aware of an open seat by Remus Lupin, she smiled at him upon realizing his presence, only to receive one in return, and she made her way to sit down next to him.
"I had hoped the next time we met would have been under better circumstances," Lupin stated.
"Yes. Me as well." Narnia paused to look around the room again, before returning her attentions back to Lupin. "Word travels fast, I see."
"I suspect, to some degree, there was an element of expectation in all of us that this would occur. It was only a matter of when that remained a mystery. Voldemort couldn't have his....inner circle, I suppose one could say, held up in Azkaban. He'd need all of his supporters to execute any plans against us."
"True."
Conversation halted abruptly as Dumbledore entered the room. Exhaustion hung on his face.
"We are all aware of the reason we are gathered this morning." There were nods and muttered words of affirmation. "Minerva and I have already taken precautions concerning the school and its students, for the time being at least. Professors Hagrid and Flitwick are guarding the gates, while all other staff members, not present here, are keeping the students inside the castle. So, with that taken care of, we can address other matters of concern.
"I have spoken with Arthur Weasley already and as one would presume, the Ministry is in quite an uproar this morning. Fudge is appalled that this has happened and insists on keeping the dementors present at the prison. I fear this will not be the last "break out" from there, but in no doubt, the most troublesome.
"Shacklebolt, Moody, and Tonks have been sent in search of the escaped Death Eaters." Dumbledore paused, a look concern displayed on his face.
"We have no other information at this time, and I hope that Severus will be able to return soon to shed some light on the matter. In fact, I expect him any moment.
"As hard as it is to sit and wait, I'm afraid that is all we can do right now."
Narnia looked to the floor. Dumbledore knew Severus was involved, yet, despite concern, seemed unbothered by it. There could only be one explanation, therefore placing Severus in a more precarious position than she originally thought. Unaware, she began to nervously tap her fingers on the arm of her chair. She fixed her eyes on the door, willing Severus to walk through it. It was imperative to know he was okay. She suddenly felt a warm sensation on top of her hand, jerking her away from her thoughts. Looking down, she noticed Lupin had placed his gently on top of hers, in an attempt to calm her. Feebly, she smiled at him.
Moments passed by with difficulty, coupled with conversations Narnia struggled to follow. Some members of the assembled group had left, leaving a few to remain. She had deserted her seat a while ago, to take a place next to the window overlooking the grounds. She spun around when the door to Dumbledore's office immediately opened, producing a slightly disheveled Severus Snape.
Narnia felt as though she had finally come up for air and her eyes were set on his dark figure, even though his attentions never lingered in her direction. She waited for some signal of recognition from him, but it never came. Even still, he seemed physically unharmed, putting her fears at ease. He had more pressing matters to address than taking a moment to reassure her and she suddenly felt foolish and selfish for expecting more from him.
"Headmaster, if I may have a word. Privately."
"Of course." Dumbledore politely continued, "If you will excuse us, please."
Narnia made her exit with others. Arriving in the corridor again, the group dispersed, leaving Narnia and Lupin alone.
"I should make myself scarce, in case a student spots me," Lupin stated.
"Of course." Narnia remained distracted.
"Could I interest you in some lunch? To get your mind off things," he offered.
That sort of distraction Narnia knew she could welcome. It would be a sufficient way to spend the time until she could make for the dungeons to see Severus. From his tone, it appeared he would be speaking with her uncle for an extended amount of time. "What did you have in mind?"
"Just follow me."
Lupin led Narnia down a series of hallways and passages, stopping only to check for passersby, when they finally stopped in front of an old tapestry, displaying trolls in tutus.
"Stand here for a moment," Lupin stated and then walked up and down the corridor, past Narnia, several times. She was confused, for a minute, but then noticed a door had appeared from thin air. Grabbing its handle, he ushered her inside. "After you." The quirky nature of the magical world had long worn off for Narnia and without question she stepped inside. Her appreciation for her new home was quickly reborn.
The room was fashioned to resemble a small café, quaint and comfortable. In the center was a table set for two, nothing romantic, which would have caused Narnia discomfort, but just a casual setting. Food had already been prepared and set onto the table and Lupin had taken the liberty to pull out her chair.
Amazed, she inquired about her surroundings. "What is this place, Remus?" She took her seat, allowing him the opportunity to answer.
"It is termed, 'The Room of Requirement'. We required a place of obscurity to have lunch and therefore, have been awarded one. My friends and I happened upon it while at school here. It can be quite useful. For instance, Harry and his classmates used it only last year as a way to practice Defense Against the Dark Arts, away from prying eyes," Lupin concluded, taking his seat.
"Interesting," Narnia replied, chuckling. "I shall never cease to be amazed."
Upon placing her napkin in her lap, Narnia began to pick through the food on her plate. "This was a wonderful idea, Remus. Thank you for letting me tag along."
"Oh, my pleasure. Besides, we had agreed on lunch sometime and Hogsmeade, obviously, is out of the question, plus....you looked as though you could use a break."
Smiling in response, Narnia began to pick through her food again, curious as to what Severus and Dumbledore were discussing.
"Was today the first time you became aware of Severus' duties to the Order?" Lupin suddenly asked.
Looking up from her plate, she collected her thoughts before replying. "I suppose. It seems quite obvious to me now, of course."
"Hmm. Well, Severus provides us with a fortunate advantage. Sadly, most individuals don't appreciate what he does. Present company excluded, of course."
Blushing, Narnia turned her eyes away from Lupin.
"I wonder if Severus realizes how lucky he is to be the object of your affections," Lupin teased, chuckling.
Narnia did not know how to respond.
"I apologize. It was not my intention to make you uncomfortable, Narnia."
"It's fine, really. Am I..... that obvious?"
"Quite. Though, I doubt to him. Severus has never appeared to be in touch with his 'less abrasive' emotions."
"Appearances can be deceiving, you know," Narnia stated, rising to Severus' defense. "Don't misunderstand me. I've never seen them in abundance, but they are under there and I've caught glimpses of them from time to time. Though I will not indulge," Narnia teased, "I believe I have given him some indication that I feel something for him."
Lupin seemed impressed. "Well, then, there seems to be hope for him, for you." He paused and then added, "Not that any of this is my business, but it would be my advice to take it slowly with him."
"Noted."
Narnia and Lupin finished their lunch, concluding with Lupin offering reasons he must take his leave. Narnia expressed her gratitude for his company and conversation and vowed to provide another opportunity to meet. She gathered he was politely freeing her up to seek out Severus in the dungeons, assuming the session with the Headmaster was over, and she appreciated his understanding. As Lupin could have predicted, once out in the corridor, Narnia's feet carried her in the direction of Severus' office.
If not for the simple sleeping draught Severus had given her, Narnia may have been too exhausted to be so uptight. Two days had passed since he had left, to where, she was unsure, but she gathered it wasn't for rest and relaxation. Every indication he had given her suggested he would return tomorrow and after breakfast, she would make for the dungeons, looking busy with student work until he returned.
Walking down to the Great Hall the next morning, she thought yet again of the moment in her office, just before he had left. He had caught her in a most vulnerable state, awaking from a hellish dream, which in retrospect, he never inquired about, even though Narnia knew he was quite curious about the matter. After gaining her composure, she had noticed his attire and it was apparent he was preparing to leave. There had been warning bells telling her to hold back, reminding her of her decision to keep him at arm's length, but they were drowned out by her need to send him off with some indication of how she felt. Her heart betrayed her mind and had leapt at his reaction to her touch. The way in which he embraced her, left her breathless and in no doubt, that somewhere inside of him, no matter how minor it might be, he did, in fact, feel something for her as well. She smiled with its remembrance. He had kissed her, so passionately and all that followed had been enveloped in a haze. She recalled what he had said, "We shall pick up where we left off when I return", signaling a new direction in their relationship, and she anticipated the moment when they could be alone, with nowhere to be and no interruptions.
If it had not been for this new twist in her relationship with Severus holding her thoughts captive, she would have noticed the buzz and tinge of apprehension swarming through the Great Hall. From some distance, all appeared normal at the Head Table, but as Narnia approached, solemn, worried faces of her colleagues awaited her. It was apparent that the staff was remaining calm for the students' benefit, but one look at Professor McGonagall and Narnia knew something major had happened. Noticing her uncle's absence, she took her seat and looking out amongst a sea of frightened student faces, she looked down when someone had slid a copy of the Daily Prophet in front of her. Her heart almost ceased beating. She furrowed her brows in concentration. The headline and one of the faces caught her attention; all else became blurred.
Death Eaters Escape Azkaban
There, below the headline, was an oddly familiar face. Tearing her eyes away from the picture, she glanced down to read the name; "Lucius Malfoy". Quickly making the connection, she looked to the Slytherin table and located Draco. As expected, his countenance showed no signs of worry, but a smug assurance poured from him. Disgusted, she looked back to the Daily Prophet. "His father, I presume," Narnia thought. She gazed at the photograph. His picture did nothing more than exude confidence and sophistication in a way that sickened Narnia and she watched him, as he would raise an eyebrow and sneer. She had never met this Lucius Malfoy, but even after folding the paper and placing it out of sight, his face remained clear in her mind. He was familiar, in some way and in a respect other than just having his spitting image as one of her students.
Professor McGonagall approached her from behind, leaning down to whisper in her ear. "Albus wishes to speak with us immediately following breakfast." Without looking up at the witch, Narnia simply nodded her head. She heard Minerva leave behind her and even though her appetite had disappeared, she forced several bites, knowing that the body of students gathered before her was watching her, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Catching several of their gazes, she smiled, as sincerely as she could, hoping to cast some assurance into their worried minds. Then, suddenly, as if standing in dark room where light is at once cast in, she thought of Severus. She shifted nervously in her seat. His involvement in this was certain, but to what extent and why? Her uncle knew he was going away for a few days, but..... Narnia's heart sank. Perhaps it had been his intention to leave and not return. "No, don't be ridiculous," she scolded herself mentally. Unless Severus had performed an miraculous charade this entire time, she knew better than to think him capable of returning to Voldemort's side. Then, her annoying voice of reason spoke, "he joined him once before, what could keep him from doing it again?" Shaking her head, hoping to clear it, she folded the napkin from her lap and placed in on the table. She refused to let her thoughts run away with her and hastily, she stood and made for Dumbledore's office.
After being beckoned inside, Narnia glanced around the small group that was assembled. Dumbledore's office always seemed too cramped for this many, but perhaps he had charmed it with an enlarging spell to accommodate everyone. Aware of an open seat by Remus Lupin, she smiled at him upon realizing his presence, only to receive one in return, and she made her way to sit down next to him.
"I had hoped the next time we met would have been under better circumstances," Lupin stated.
"Yes. Me as well." Narnia paused to look around the room again, before returning her attentions back to Lupin. "Word travels fast, I see."
"I suspect, to some degree, there was an element of expectation in all of us that this would occur. It was only a matter of when that remained a mystery. Voldemort couldn't have his....inner circle, I suppose one could say, held up in Azkaban. He'd need all of his supporters to execute any plans against us."
"True."
Conversation halted abruptly as Dumbledore entered the room. Exhaustion hung on his face.
"We are all aware of the reason we are gathered this morning." There were nods and muttered words of affirmation. "Minerva and I have already taken precautions concerning the school and its students, for the time being at least. Professors Hagrid and Flitwick are guarding the gates, while all other staff members, not present here, are keeping the students inside the castle. So, with that taken care of, we can address other matters of concern.
"I have spoken with Arthur Weasley already and as one would presume, the Ministry is in quite an uproar this morning. Fudge is appalled that this has happened and insists on keeping the dementors present at the prison. I fear this will not be the last "break out" from there, but in no doubt, the most troublesome.
"Shacklebolt, Moody, and Tonks have been sent in search of the escaped Death Eaters." Dumbledore paused, a look concern displayed on his face.
"We have no other information at this time, and I hope that Severus will be able to return soon to shed some light on the matter. In fact, I expect him any moment.
"As hard as it is to sit and wait, I'm afraid that is all we can do right now."
Narnia looked to the floor. Dumbledore knew Severus was involved, yet, despite concern, seemed unbothered by it. There could only be one explanation, therefore placing Severus in a more precarious position than she originally thought. Unaware, she began to nervously tap her fingers on the arm of her chair. She fixed her eyes on the door, willing Severus to walk through it. It was imperative to know he was okay. She suddenly felt a warm sensation on top of her hand, jerking her away from her thoughts. Looking down, she noticed Lupin had placed his gently on top of hers, in an attempt to calm her. Feebly, she smiled at him.
Moments passed by with difficulty, coupled with conversations Narnia struggled to follow. Some members of the assembled group had left, leaving a few to remain. She had deserted her seat a while ago, to take a place next to the window overlooking the grounds. She spun around when the door to Dumbledore's office immediately opened, producing a slightly disheveled Severus Snape.
Narnia felt as though she had finally come up for air and her eyes were set on his dark figure, even though his attentions never lingered in her direction. She waited for some signal of recognition from him, but it never came. Even still, he seemed physically unharmed, putting her fears at ease. He had more pressing matters to address than taking a moment to reassure her and she suddenly felt foolish and selfish for expecting more from him.
"Headmaster, if I may have a word. Privately."
"Of course." Dumbledore politely continued, "If you will excuse us, please."
Narnia made her exit with others. Arriving in the corridor again, the group dispersed, leaving Narnia and Lupin alone.
"I should make myself scarce, in case a student spots me," Lupin stated.
"Of course." Narnia remained distracted.
"Could I interest you in some lunch? To get your mind off things," he offered.
That sort of distraction Narnia knew she could welcome. It would be a sufficient way to spend the time until she could make for the dungeons to see Severus. From his tone, it appeared he would be speaking with her uncle for an extended amount of time. "What did you have in mind?"
"Just follow me."
Lupin led Narnia down a series of hallways and passages, stopping only to check for passersby, when they finally stopped in front of an old tapestry, displaying trolls in tutus.
"Stand here for a moment," Lupin stated and then walked up and down the corridor, past Narnia, several times. She was confused, for a minute, but then noticed a door had appeared from thin air. Grabbing its handle, he ushered her inside. "After you." The quirky nature of the magical world had long worn off for Narnia and without question she stepped inside. Her appreciation for her new home was quickly reborn.
The room was fashioned to resemble a small café, quaint and comfortable. In the center was a table set for two, nothing romantic, which would have caused Narnia discomfort, but just a casual setting. Food had already been prepared and set onto the table and Lupin had taken the liberty to pull out her chair.
Amazed, she inquired about her surroundings. "What is this place, Remus?" She took her seat, allowing him the opportunity to answer.
"It is termed, 'The Room of Requirement'. We required a place of obscurity to have lunch and therefore, have been awarded one. My friends and I happened upon it while at school here. It can be quite useful. For instance, Harry and his classmates used it only last year as a way to practice Defense Against the Dark Arts, away from prying eyes," Lupin concluded, taking his seat.
"Interesting," Narnia replied, chuckling. "I shall never cease to be amazed."
Upon placing her napkin in her lap, Narnia began to pick through the food on her plate. "This was a wonderful idea, Remus. Thank you for letting me tag along."
"Oh, my pleasure. Besides, we had agreed on lunch sometime and Hogsmeade, obviously, is out of the question, plus....you looked as though you could use a break."
Smiling in response, Narnia began to pick through her food again, curious as to what Severus and Dumbledore were discussing.
"Was today the first time you became aware of Severus' duties to the Order?" Lupin suddenly asked.
Looking up from her plate, she collected her thoughts before replying. "I suppose. It seems quite obvious to me now, of course."
"Hmm. Well, Severus provides us with a fortunate advantage. Sadly, most individuals don't appreciate what he does. Present company excluded, of course."
Blushing, Narnia turned her eyes away from Lupin.
"I wonder if Severus realizes how lucky he is to be the object of your affections," Lupin teased, chuckling.
Narnia did not know how to respond.
"I apologize. It was not my intention to make you uncomfortable, Narnia."
"It's fine, really. Am I..... that obvious?"
"Quite. Though, I doubt to him. Severus has never appeared to be in touch with his 'less abrasive' emotions."
"Appearances can be deceiving, you know," Narnia stated, rising to Severus' defense. "Don't misunderstand me. I've never seen them in abundance, but they are under there and I've caught glimpses of them from time to time. Though I will not indulge," Narnia teased, "I believe I have given him some indication that I feel something for him."
Lupin seemed impressed. "Well, then, there seems to be hope for him, for you." He paused and then added, "Not that any of this is my business, but it would be my advice to take it slowly with him."
"Noted."
Narnia and Lupin finished their lunch, concluding with Lupin offering reasons he must take his leave. Narnia expressed her gratitude for his company and conversation and vowed to provide another opportunity to meet. She gathered he was politely freeing her up to seek out Severus in the dungeons, assuming the session with the Headmaster was over, and she appreciated his understanding. As Lupin could have predicted, once out in the corridor, Narnia's feet carried her in the direction of Severus' office.